Our online store has an outdated ordering system that requires users to go through several steps before completing their purchase. First, they add items to their cart and then are redirected to a page where they must either register or log in if they are already registered. The registration process involves filling out a lengthy form with personal information such as full name, address, zip code, and more. After that, they can choose the method of delivery and payment.

The statistics reveal a disheartening picture: out of 100 people who add items to their carts, only 40 proceed to order, and merely 20 complete the purchase. This means that a significant percentage of users (60%) don't even initiate the ordering process. Among those who do start, half of them (50%) abandon it before reaching the end. The data clearly indicates that the main drop-off point occurs when users are required to enter their contact details.

It is widely recognized by web design experts that the shopping cart and checkout system are the most critical areas for improvement in e-commerce websites. Personally, it frustrates me when I'm asked to provide unnecessary information. Why should I, for instance, share my address and postal code if I plan to pick up the goods myself? Furthermore, I have no interest in registering on the site or providing an email; I simply want to purchase my order in person!

Given these challenges, our team has decided to revamp the entire ordering system on our website. While our site attracts substantial traffic and generates many orders, our conversion rate remains disappointingly low. We receive numerous visitors, but half of them struggle to navigate our complex system. We are exhausted by this situation and have committed to making necessary changes.

In light of these developments, I would like to pose a question to the community: Can anyone provide examples of online stores with a well-implemented (if not "ideal") ordering system? It would be helpful to hear about good and convenient experiences. Additionally, I'm curious to know if there are any paid or free scripts available for implementing such functionality on the web. Although I am unsure of how a universal script could work, especially given that our site is custom-built and not on a common platform. Feel free to share your thoughts, opinions, and personal experiences on this matter.

An ideal ordering system would follow these steps:

1. Add items to the basket.
2. Adjust the quantity in the basket and view the total price.
3. Proceed to checkout, with four options available:

3.a. Provide a phone number to call the manager, share the order number (displayed immediately), and resolve everything with the manager. Cash payment upon receipt.

3.b. Enter a phone number for the manager to call and finalize the order. Cash payment upon receipt.

3.c. Fill out only the essential order details:
- One text box for first name and last name.
- One text box for soap.
- One text box for the phone number.
- One text area for the address. Eliminate unnecessary fields like "street, house, building, apartment". The text area allows flexibility for notes to the courier or links to maps for directions. This reduces complexity.
- Optional: "Add a dot or draw a route on Yandex map from the nearest metro station." This simple feature enhances convenience. However, it should be optional.
Only address, name, and phone number are required.

3.d. Registration: Similar to option 3.c, but with additional fields and the provision of a login and password for future purchases.

4. If electronic money payment is chosen, proceed with the payment process.

I have desired such a streamlined system for two years now. Unfortunately, most platforms complicate things unnecessarily. If user registration is important, consider displaying a "0.5% discount for registered users" banner prominently. Even better, offer "100,500 bonus points for the next purchase" to incentivize registration and improve the user experience.

To simplify the process, we can consider reducing it to just two fields: email and phone. The manager can then contact the customer to gather any additional information needed.

If the delivery calculation module is enabled and depends on the location, we can include an optional field for the city. However, if geoip is used for approximate location tracking, even the city field may not be necessary.

In summary, the ordering process would involve two fields: one for email (for various reminders and documentation purposes) and the second for phone (for direct communication with the manager, as relying solely on a cumbersome email might not be convenient).

By streamlining the information collection, we can improve the user experience and reduce unnecessary data entry. Additionally, this approach can make it easier for the manager to communicate with customers, resulting in a smoother overall process.

Implementing product filters and offering a streamlined registration process has become the standard for online stores.

For instance, there is an excellent module called Simple for OpenCart that simplifies both registration and ordering. I recommend looking into it as it provides a demo and you might find some helpful ideas to incorporate into your own system.

By adopting a user-friendly approach and making the registration and ordering processes more efficient, you can enhance the overall experience for your customers. Additionally, consider exploring similar modules or plugins specific to your platform to further optimize the user journey.

Streamlining the checkout process and reducing unnecessary steps can definitely help improve your conversion rate. Here are a few examples of online stores known for their well-implemented ordering systems:

1. Amazon: Amazon has a highly optimized purchase process that allows users to quickly add items to their cart, review their order, choose shipping options, and complete the purchase with minimal friction.

2. Shopify: Shopify is a popular e-commerce platform that offers a user-friendly and customizable checkout system. They provide various checkout options, including guest checkout, to cater to different customer preferences.

3. Apple: Apple's online store is known for its simplicity and ease of use. Users can easily add products to their bag and proceed to checkout, where they have the option to either sign in or continue as a guest to complete their purchase.

As for scripts and tools to implement an improved ordering system on your custom-built website, there are several options available. Some popular ones include WooCommerce (a plugin for WordPress), Magento, and OpenCart. These platforms offer a range of features and customization options that can help simplify the ordering process for your customers.

more examples of online stores with well-implemented ordering systems:

1. Etsy: Etsy is a marketplace for handmade and unique products. They have a user-friendly checkout process that allows customers to easily add items to their cart, enter shipping details, and choose from various payment methods.

2. Zappos: Zappos is an online shoe and clothing retailer known for its excellent customer service. Their checkout process is streamlined, offering guest checkout options and a simple step-by-step flow to complete the purchase.

3. Nike: Nike's online store provides a seamless ordering experience. Users can quickly browse products, select their desired options, and proceed to a straightforward checkout process with clear indicators of each step.

When looking for scripts or tools to implement an improved ordering system, you may also consider looking into specific features that align with your requirements. For example, if you want to offer a simplified guest checkout option, there are plugins available for popular e-commerce platforms that can help you achieve this. Additionally, many e-commerce platforms have built-in functionality or integrations for various payment gateways, shipping providers, and more.